Loaded Sweet Potatoes

by Julie Johnson, Tastemaker in Residence

Original recipe from 2020 Cook’s Illustrated All-Time Best Holiday Recipes

Image by eatingwell.com

Ingredients

3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced about ¼ inch thick

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper as desired

8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (I used mild cheddar)

4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (I used pancetta)

3 green onions diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

Sour Cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease 13 x 9-inch baking dish.

2. Toss potatoes, oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Microwave, covered until potatoes are tender – about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir halfway through microwaving. I covered the bowl with a plate. Use caution when removing from microwave. The plate will be very hot and the steam released from under the plate will be very hot. Uncover potatoes and let cool. 

3. Layer potatoes and cheese in greased baking dish. I had two layers. 

4. Place in oven and bake until potatoes are soft and cheese golden brown. About 30 minutes.

5. Top with crumbled bacon and diced green onions. 

6. Serve with sour cream if desired.